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The Florida Sister Cities Conference is set to take place from November 15 to 17, 2026, in beautiful Tampa, Florida. This annual gathering aims to unite Sister Cities members and promote international friendship and collaboration. Attendees can expect an engaging agenda featuring keynote speakers, panel discussions, and networking opportunities designed to enhance cross-cultural relationships and build valuable partnerships. The conference is open to both members and non-members, making it an inclusive event that encourages wider participation. Join us for enriching experiences, insightful conversations, and the chance to connect with like-minded individuals passionate about global cooperation and community engagement.
🌍 Engage with international leaders and learn about best practices in fostering relationships between cities around the world.
🤝 Network with fellow attendees to forge connections that may lead to future collaborations and opportunities.
🎤 Attend keynote speeches and workshops led by experts in global relations, providing insights into effective diplomacy and partnership strategies.
📝 Participate in discussions that address contemporary issues affecting Sister Cities and explore ways to overcome challenges together.
Sunday, November 15
Florida Sister Cities Annual Meeting
1:00–2:00
PM Registration & Welcome Conference check-in, distribution of materials, and an opportunity to connect with fellow delegates before the opening session.
2:00–3:00
PM Opening Plenary: Welcome & State of Florida Sister Cities Presenters: Brenda Frinks, Sherman Banks, Fred Blanton Official conference opening featuring a welcome to attendees, Sister Cities International updates, accomplishments from across Florida, strategic priorities, and an overview of initiatives for the coming year.
3:00–3:15
PM Break Refreshments and networking.
3:15–5:00
PM Building, Strengthening & Revitalizing Sister City Programs Presenter: Fred Blanton Learn practical strategies to launch new partnerships, revitalize inactive programs, strengthen municipal engagement, recruit volunteers, increase community participation, and create sustainable Sister City organizations.
5:30–6:30 PM
Welcome Reception & Networking MixerHost: Brenda Frinks, Florida State Representative Meet conference attendees, reconnect with colleagues, and build new relationships while enjoying light
Time Session Description refreshments in an informal networking environment.
6:30 PM
Group Dinner (Location TBD) Continue conversations over dinner, strengthen professional relationships, and share ideas with Sister Cities leaders from throughout Florida.
Monday, November 16
TIDES Conference & Florida Sister Cities Networking
Participants are encouraged to attend Tampa TIDES educational sessions throughout the day while taking advantage of dedicated Florida Sister Cities networking opportunities. Registered SCI Florida attendees can attend TIDES at no fee. Please do not register on the TIDES Platform.
12:00–1:00 PM
Florida Sister Cities Networking Lunch (Location TBD) Enjoy lunch while connecting with fellow members, exchanging ideas, sharing successful programs, and discussing opportunities for collaboration.
3:00–5:00 PM
Florida Sister Cities Roundtable SessionsFacilitator: Amber Interactive discussions featuring regional meetings, office hours, peer-to-peer problem solving, cluster discussions, networking, and the exchange of innovative ideas and best practices.
Evening (Optional)
Cocktail Hour (Location TBD) Continue networking in a relaxed social setting.
Informal Group Dinner (Location TBD) An opportunity for members and guests to enjoy dinner together and continue conversations outside the conference setting.
Tuesday, November 17
Florida Sister Cities Business Meeting & Education Day
Time Session Description
9:00–9:30 AM
Welcome Opening remarks, conference updates, and an overview of the day’s educational programming.
9:30 AM–12:00 PM
Florida Sister Cities Annual Business Meeting: Conduct the official business of the organization, including bylaws, elections, committee reports, strategic initiatives, financial updates, and member discussions.
12:00– 1:00 PM
Lunch Lunch and networking with conference participants.
1:00–2:15 PM
Youth Programs Presenter: Daphney Antoine and 2 others TBD Explore innovative youth engagement initiatives, educational exchanges, leadership development opportunities, and strategies for involving students in international partnerships.
2:30–3:30 PM
Nonprofit Finance Presenter: Fred Blanton Learn nonprofit financial management practices, budgeting, fundraising strategies, grant opportunities, compliance, and long-term sustainability for Sister City organizations.
3:30–4:30 PM
Conflict Resolution & Collaborative LeadershipPresenters: Lauren Poe & Amber Develop practical communication and conflict resolution skills to strengthen partnerships, navigate organizational challenges, and foster productive collaboration.
4:30–5:00 PM
Exchange Programs ShowcasePresenters: Gainesville & Fort Lauderdale Sister Cities Hear success stories and best practices from established exchange programs, highlighting educational, cultural, and professional exchanges that strengthen international relationships. FUNDRaising
Evening Optional Group Activity Continue networking and enjoy one of Tampa’s local attractions or cultural experiences with fellow conference participants.
